Defence Minister Ivan Anušić visits Croatian soldiers in NATO deployments in Poland and Lithuania

Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić visited Croatian soldiers deployed as part of NATO's forward presence in Poland and Lithuania. 

Together with troops from other NATO member states, they form the alliance’s first line of defense on its eastern flank. In Poland, Minister Anušić met with members of the 17th Croatian Contingent (HRVCON).

The 17th HRVCON in Poland includes 50 members of the Croatian Armed Forces, seven of whom are women. On the eve of the Easter holidays, Minister Anušić met with the soldiers and the contingent commander, Lieutenant Colonel Mirko Vladović, who briefed him on their tasks and activities.

“Croatian soldiers, alongside American, British, and Romanian forces, contribute to collective defense and help secure NATO’s eastern flank,” Anušić said. He emphasized that Croatia’s participation in NATO, EU, and UN missions not only demonstrates its reliability as an ally but also strengthens its own defense capabilities.

The Minister thanked the troops for their service and highlighted that Croatian soldiers consistently receive high marks for professionalism in international missions.

Speaking about domestic military developments, Anušić noted that basic military training has begun in Croatia with nearly full attendance.

“We will soon have new soldiers in the barracks, some of whom will continue their careers in the Croatian Army and follow in your footsteps. I wish you a happy Easter, even as you spend it far from home, and take care of each other,” he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Vladović praised the contingent’s professionalism and dedication. “This is my first mission, but many of the soldiers here have previously served in Afghanistan and bring valuable experience,” he said.

Minister Anušić also met with Polish and international commanders, including Brigadier General Mirosław Spurek, Commander of the 15th Mechanized Brigade of the Polish Army, and Colonel John Nimmons, Commander of the NATO battle group.

The U.S.-led battle group includes Croatian soldiers alongside troops from the United Kingdom and Romania, with logistical and operational support provided by the Polish military. Its mission is to enhance combat readiness, develop interoperability through joint exercises, improve defense planning, and integrate with Poland’s national defense strategy and NATO objectives.